370 pages ; 24 cm

"In this study, Jeremy Paxman looks with characteristic intelligence and humour at every aspect of the monarchy and how politics, religion, the military and the law have affected it. From the execution of Charles I to the Abdication Crisis, from Queen Victoria to Elizabeth II, Paxman discovers how the role of head of state has changed over the years and what it means for the rest of us. What is it like to be royal, and what is the true function of someone with little actual power and whose only qualification is to have had the right parents?"--Jacket

Includes bibliographical references (pages 326-351) and index

"In this study, Jeremy Paxman looks with characteristic intelligence and humour at every aspect of the monarchy and how politics, religion, the military and the law have affected it. From the execution of Charles I to the Abdication Crisis, from Queen Victoria to Elizabeth II, Paxman discovers how the role of head of state has changed over the years and what it means for the rest of us. What is it like to be royal, and what is the true function of someone with little actual power and whose only qualification is to have had the right parents?"--Jacket

First, find a throne -- Next, produce an heir -- Learning to be regal -- Now find a consort -- Marshals and mannequins -- Being God's annointed -- Killing a king -- Divine right and diviner impotence -- We are you -- The happiness business -- Gilded but gelded -- The end of the line?

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